I Don't See Adversity by Matthew

I Don't See Adversity by Matthew - May 2022 Scholarship Essay

The word adversity is defined by misfortune. Misfortune is defined as an unfortunate condition. When I look at my life I do not see adversity and misfortune. Nothing I have faced is unfortunate. Everything I have faced is a challenge and a test to improve myself. If I allow my life to be dictated by my limitations I will not achieve my goals. Adversity presents me with challenges and opportunities to direct my path and lead me to success.
When I was 13 years old I was diagnosed with moderate hearing loss in both ears. This is an uncorrectable condition. This could be considered misfortune, for me it has been a challenge that I am overcoming. I sit in the front of the classroom, I learn to read lips, I make happen what I need to happen. Now at 17 years old I have been diagnosed with Graves’ Disease, a thyroid condition which will be with me all my life. It has removed me from sports and requires me to focus on figuring out what chemicals I can add to my body to find balance. This too could be considered misfortune. I will not allow it to be misfortune. I will take this challenge and find a way around it. I will coach other students in sports, I will research and find a way to bring myself to full health.
Adversity is not something that should slow us down. Adversity is an opportunity to choose another route. An opportunity to become stronger and reach new goals. A single path in life will not lead me to the best result, changes in path are what ultimately will allow me to reach my full potential. I welcome adversity in my life, in a positive way, to help me find my path.